After 'Rahul as PM' episode, Arjun set to upset Cong again

Published: Friday, May 9, 2008, 20:07 [IST]

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New Delhi, May 9 (UNI) Human Resource Development Minister Arjun Singh, who had put the Congress leadership in a tight spot recently by suggesting that Rahul Gandhi be made the next Prime Minister, is all set to upset his party yet again, this time through an interview published in a book released today.

Mr Singh's remarks on the decision-making process in the party and the controversial Ram Setu canal project are likely to draw a series of reactions from the All India Congress Committee (AICC).

Mr Singh has expressed anguish over the deviation from the established practice of decision-making in the party, saying it is providing an opportunity to some sections to flout the High Command's directives.

Mr Singh made this observation in an interview in a book, ''Mohin Kahan Vishram'' (No Time for Rest to Me) released today.

The book, based on the life and times of Mr Singh, encomapsses his views on a wide spectrum of issues, including politics, sex education and films.

Asked about the directives and orders of the High Commands in various political parties, he said the Congress had always allowed freedom to its leaders to contribute in decision-making before a final outcome was reached.

''But this process has now come under stress,'' he lamented, and said he followed any stand the party took.

Mr Singh said that since the inputs of various leaders were not considered while taking a decision, several of them did not feel associated with the postures the party took.

Recently the HRD Minister had come under fire for advocating Mr Rahul Gandhi as the next Prime Minister. The AICC, while slamming his stand, had maintained that the party had no place for sycophancy and had appreciated the contribution of Dr Manmohan Singh.

On Ram Setu, the Congress veteran said it was a matter of faith and there was no justification for creating any controversy on Lord Ram.

''This is a matter of our faith. There is no need to consider what others have to think on it,'' he said.

Asked to comment on the original affidavit submitted before the Supreme Court on Ram Setu, which had put the Centre in a spot, Mr Singh said the ''carelessness of officials'' should be held reponsible for it.

''It should have sufficed to say on the Ram Setu that there is no historical evidence for it. Instead, it was said it does not have any history.'' UNI NAB PK GC1929